Read time 2 minutes
Thyme signifies strength, so before going into battle, soldiers in ancient Rome would take thyme baths—believing that it would give them extra courage. During the middle ages, young maidens would embroider the scarf of her beloved with thyme before he set off to war, hoping it would protect him and bring him back home alive. There is even an ancient ritual of wearing an amulet with thyme twigs—giving that person courage and allowing him to see the world of the fairies. This plant produces tiny flowers that are purple, lavender,2 or mauve – which are mentioned in old legends as delightful, small fairies.
Thyme, a member of the mint family, can grow up to 30cm (12”) and retains its flavor really well while cooking. I like to add thyme to vegetable dishes I slow cook in the oven. My favorite cheese cookies are with thyme, and it is an excellent herb that can give a surprisingly vigorous taste to dishes with beetroot.
However, not only does it protect others from bad breath, but it can also protect you from bad and evil spirits. In ancient legends, medieval witches and wizards would create a thyme beverage that would help them transport into other worlds to fight off evil curses. This magical herb takes about 30 days to fully grow in the NATUFIA Smart Garden. Once it is fully grown, you can cut as many branches as you need for food or tea – and who knows, maybe you will even be visited by little fairies.
This herb retains its fragrance well while drying, so it is used in potpourri, sweet sachets, and herb pillows. I use fresh or dried leaves to make tea when I have a cough or feel a cold beginning to develop. It can even be used to treat bronchitis and it helps to heal an upset stomach. I am very grateful for this graceful plant because it was ready to help every time my children got sick. The essential oil contains thymol, which is an antiseptic and a disinfectant used in deodorants, toothpaste, mouthwashes, and gargles to protect others from offensive odors.
